DNC NextWave Regional Bootcamps

Training the Next Generation of Campaign and State Party Staff

The DNC NextWave Regional Bootcamp is a new, free training program that serves to strengthen the pipeline of the next generation of campaign and party staff, and prepare them to win races up and down the ballot for 2026 and beyond.

This three-day, in-person training program provides participants with specialized training based on their campaign experience level, and connects them with other campaign talent and professionals in their region. Four NextWave Regional Bootcamps will be held throughout the country in 2026.

Participants are placed into one of two tracks to maximize their experience at NextWave. Track placements are based on applicants’ demonstrated experience with professional campaign work.

  1. Campaigns 101: for current or aspiring field organizers, fellows, and campaign associates with less than two cycles of experience who are looking to strengthen their skills and get exposure to new aspects of campaign and state party work.
  2. Management Track: for mid-level and senior campaign and state party professionals who understand the technical aspects of campaign work but are looking to expand their skills as managers and leaders in the Democratic ecosystem.

Throughout the program, participants will have the opportunity to network with other attendees and trainers, and apply what they have learned through a competitive challenge.

The DNC is now accepting applications for the NextWave Eastern Regional Bootcamp in Pittsburgh, PA! Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, and early applications are encouraged.

2026 NextWave Regional Bootcamps

East: Pittsburgh, PA

  • Summer 2026
  • Location: To Be Announced
  • Eligible states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Midwest: To Be Announced

  • Summer 2026
  • Location: To Be Announced
  • Eligible states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Want to be the first to hear about our upcoming NextWave Regional Bootcamps? Please sign up for the DNC National Training Department Newsletter to hear about these programs as they are announced.

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South: Charlotte, NC – This program has concluded.

  • March 12 – March 14, 2026
  • Charlotte, NC
  • Eligible states: Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and West Virginia.

West: Phoenix, AZ – This program has concluded.

  • May 7 – May 9, 2026
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Eligible states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

Learn more about the DNC National Training Department here.